Can Music Therapy Improve Post-Surgery Recovery?

Today, we explore a compelling project published in the Journal of PeriAnesthesia Nursing that examines how music therapy impacts post-anesthesia recovery in orthopedic surgical patients. Conducted at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital in Texas, this evidence-based practice project sheds light on how music can improve patient comfort and satisfaction in a clinical setting.

At Oriems Fit, we’re dedicated to simplifying complex research to inspire curiosity and encourage deeper exploration. Links to the original study, often with downloadable PDFs, are included at the end of our blog posts for those who want to delve into the full details.

What Was the Project About?

This study investigated whether providing music therapy in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) could:

1. Reduce the use of intravenous narcotics.
2. Decrease length of stay in the PACU.
3. Improve patient satisfaction scores related to pain and comfort.

Who Conducted the Research?

The project was led by Fiona S. Smith, BS, BSN, RN, CPAN, at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital in Texas. With a focus on orthopedic surgeries, the project aligned with the hospital’s commitment to innovative patient care practices.

How Was the Study Conducted?

• Participants: Adult ambulatory orthopedic surgical patients.
• Methodology:
  • Baseline data on narcotic usage, PACU stay duration, and patient satisfaction were collected over three months.
  • For the next three months, eligible patients received music therapy in the PACU.
  • Data from both periods were compared to assess the impact of music therapy.

Key Findings

1. Improved Comfort and Satisfaction

   • Music therapy significantly enhanced patient satisfaction scores related to pain and comfort.

2. Reduction in Meperidine Usage

   • While overall intravenous narcotic use (e.g., Fentanyl) and PACU stay duration showed minimal changes, Meperidine usage decreased notably in the music therapy group.

3. Positive Feedback

   • Patients expressed high levels of satisfaction, emphasizing the calming effect of music during their recovery.

Why Does This Matter?

Orthopedic surgeries are often associated with high levels of postoperative pain. Music therapy offers a:

• Non-invasive alternative to reduce pain perception.
• Cost-effective method to improve patient satisfaction.
• Holistic approach that complements traditional medical treatments.

How Can Music Therapy Be Applied?

1. Choose the Right Music: Use calming, instrumental tracks without lyrics to avoid cognitive distractions.
2. Implement During Recovery: Play music during post-surgery rest periods to enhance relaxation.
3. Encourage Personal Playlists: Patients can bring their favorite calming tracks to personalize their therapy.

Original Research Details

This blog is based on the project "Music Therapy: A PACU Evidence-Based Practice Project," published in the Journal of PeriAnesthesia Nursing. You can access and download the full study here​

Join the Conversation

Have you experienced music therapy in a medical setting? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Let’s discuss how music can transform recovery experiences!